
Grading
THE IMPORTANCE OF GRADING
At Springfield Lakes Netball Club, grading is a vital part of preparing for a successful season and applies to all players from U10 to Open. The grading process helps ensure that players are placed in teams where they can develop their skills, enjoy fair competition, and build positive team experiences. By carefully assessing players’ abilities and team dynamics, we aim to create balanced teams that give everyone the best opportunity to grow and enjoy their netball journey.
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It is important to note that Springfield Lakes Netball Club does not determine playing times or assign final divisions to teams. The club’s responsibility is to provide recommendations to the Western Districts Netball Association (WDNA) based on the outcomes of its internal grading process. The ultimate decisions regarding team divisions and playing times rest with the WDNA, which makes these determinations in accordance with the number of teams and the availability of courts.
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We recognise that unforeseen circumstances may occasionally prevent players from attending grading sessions. However, participation in grading is compulsory, as it is a critical part of preparing for a successful season. Being present allows our graders to make the most informed decisions regarding team placement. Please be aware that players who are unable to attend either grading day will be allocated to a team based solely on coach’s feedback from previous season (where available) or where there may be a space for nominated position, which may not fully reflect their abilities or preferences.
2026 GRADING DATES:
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Saturday 21st February
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Sunday 22nd February
Exact times for each age group will be posted in late January 2026.​
GRADING LOCATION:
The Springfield Anglican College (TSAC)​
Senior Campus - opposite Brighton Homes Arena
Springfield Greenbank Arterial,
Springfield Central.
DRESS CODE - mandatory
Players must strictly wear plain black bike pants and a plain white singlet top so that officials can mark players upper arm and calf with their grading numbers using a permanent texta. No representative singlets please.
Wear your netball shoes and hair tied back. Ensure nails are trimmed and drink bottle full.
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NOTE: all jewellery must be REMOVED - it cannot be taped.​
FOOD & PHONES
​If you require snacks, please bring them with you into the grading area - players will not be allowed to approach spectators during grading sessions. Mobile phones must be kept in the player's bags during grading.
Arrive "NETBALL READY"
Players must arrive at the scheduled time so that we can do check in, allocate grading numbers & begin warm up. If you are running late, please phone the SLNC mobile 0410 901 404 BEFORE the scheduled arrival time so that we can include you in the computer generated draw and allocate your games.
INSURANCE
For insurance purposes, every player must have completed their registration in Netball Connect prior to grading.
SPECTATORS
Spectators are welcome to watch grading session however we do request that they:
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do not approach/speak to players or officials during grading
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do not cheer for or coach players during grading
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do not photograph or video grading sessions.